Aston Villa have made a move to sign West Bromwich Albion defender Joleon Lescott, sources have told ESPN FC.
Lescott, 32, is entering the final year of his contract at West Brom after joining on a two-year deal last summer following his departure from Manchester City on a free transfer.
The centre-back made 29 appearances in all competitions for West Brom in his debut season, but was forced to fill in at left-back on several occasions even though he prefers to play centrally.
The recent arrival of James Chester from Hull City for £8 million could put Lescott's place in Tony Pulis' side in question and Villa are ready to test West Brom's resolve to keep hold of the England international.
Villa boss Tim Sherwood is keen to bolster his defensive options with Ron Vlaar's contract having expired and sources told ESPN FC that he sees Lescott as an ideal replacement because of his experience and leadership qualities.
Although West Brom have an option of a further year on Lescott's contract at the Hawthorns, Villa are hoping the offer of a long-term deal, combined with the fact he grew up as a boyhood Villa fan, will boost their chances of landing the defender.